Beasley Set To Return To Australian Racing

Jockey Danny Beasley has confirmed that he is ’99 percent’ certain to return to riding in Sydney in the New Year.

Danny Beasley had plenty of success for trainer Gai Waterhouse (pictured) during his previous stint in Sydney. Photo by: Daniel Costello

Danny Beasley had plenty of success for trainer Gai Waterhouse (pictured) during his previous stint in Sydney. Photo by: Daniel Costello

Beasley has been based in Singapore for the past seven years, after a riding distinguished career in Australia that included 13 winners at Group 1 level, but was not issued a riding license by the Singapore Turf Club for the new season, despite sitting second in the Singapore Jockeys Premiership for this season.

The talented hoop said that he has still not been given a reason for his snub from the Singapore Turf Club and he told Sky Racing HQ that he was disappointed not to be able to continue his riding career in the exciting racing jurisdiction after having had plenty of success this season.

“It was a bit of a shock and then the disappointment came through,” Beasley said.

“I had a good season this year, so I expected to get relicense, but you have to respect the clubs decision and move on.

“I’ve been able to link up with a couple of really good horses up here this year, War Affair and a two-year-old called Affleck, and they won multiple cup races up here and War Affair won three Group 1 races.

“I’ve rode 81 winners going into the last two meetings, so this has definitely been the best season that I’ve had.”

Beasley revealed directly after his snub from the Singapore Turf Club that he would look to continue his riding career in Asia, possibly in Macau or Japan, but has had a change of heart in the past fortnight and is now eyeing a return to Australia.

The Berrigan-born jockey said that he plans to return to Australia for Christmas before heading back to Singapore to tie up some responsibilities ahead of a likely return to riding in Sydney in February.

“When it first came out that I didn’t get relicensed I was quiet overwhelmed with the response I got in the offers that came in,” Beasley said.

“I didn’t say yes or no to any of it, but obviously being in Asia for seven years you get very comfortable with the lifestyle.

“The appeal of staying in Asia is still there, but as I’ve thought about it over the last few years I sort of thought that I would just go home for a bit.

“I probably still have a little bit to achieve in Australia and I feel that I can still compete at a level that I can do that.

“I will come home, work pretty hard and try to get back into the Sydney scene and get back into the level that I was.

“Hopefully I’ll be back in Sydney ready to kick-off in early February.”

Beasley was well known for his association with champion galloper Grand Armee and he partnered his favourite horse to Group 1 victories in the 2003 Doncaster Mile, 2004 and 2005 Queen Elizabeth Stakes, 2004 George Main Stakes, 2005 Chipping Norton Stakes and 2005 Ranvet Stakes.

About The Author

Thomas Hackett

Thomas is a passionate and opinionated racing journalist and punter who has been obsessed with horse racing since he backed Saintly to win the 1996 Melbourne Cup. An international racing enthusiast, he has his finger on the pulse of racing news not just from Australia but all around the world.